May 15, 2009

Underage drinking should concern all families
. . .
Dear Parents and Guardians:

Beginning with the Barrington High School prom this Saturday, followed by graduation in two weeks, this is a time of celebration for many older students and their families. Unfortunately, these happy occasions sometimes involve underage drinking, which often results in tragedy. While underage drinking must concern parents of teenagers, those families with elementary and middle school students should also speak candidly and age-appropriately with their children about the risks and consequences of underage drinking.

Underage drinking is a potential threat we can work together to avert, and our teamwork must begin in the elementary and middle schools where exposure to alcohol often originates. Young people must learn the importance of making the right choice about alcohol. Because all students are younger than age 21, the only responsible option is for them not to drink.

At Barrington High School, the Illinois Youth Survey conducted last year indicates alcohol consumption among students is not the norm. In fact, 60 percent of Barrington High School students said they had not consumed alcohol in the previous 30 days. While this figure is much lower than desired, we should feel some relief a majority of our youth are mature enough to avoid alcohol. Still, we want all children of all ages to make smart decisions when pressured or tempted.

Parents, you can also make wise choices to discourage underage drinking before it begins. Reduce the access of alcohol to youth in your home, set clear boundaries about what the rules are to keep children safe during social events, and make sure any parties your child attends in your home or elsewhere are alcohol and drug free. According to the Barrington Community Drug Prevention Coalition, parental disapproval of underage drinking is a key reason why adolescents refrain from alcohol. More important, furnishing alcohol to minors in your home can be a felony offense punishable by strict fines and imprisonment.

A special insert in both English and Spanish (follow either link) is appearing in area newspapers on the dangers of underage drinking, which hopefully prompts community and family discussions about the risks of alcohol consumption at any time or age, not just during prom and graduation season. Please join Barrington 220 in doing everything possible to promote safe, healthy behaviors and responsible decisions among young people in our community.

Sincerely, Tom Leonard
tleonard@cusd220.org